In view of continuous increase of heavy plate prices and strong demand in Europe, European steelworks are widely expected to increase their price by €20 to 40 per ton for second quarter orders.

Import prices have been raised by €30-80 per ton since mid-February. On the other hand, the uncertain policy that Chinese government adjust export tax rebate makes the resource reduce.

The level of imports of heavy plate has reduced significantly in recent months, which puts an even more pressure on European mills.

However, the heavy plate demand remains strong in Europe. All of these push heave plate prices up.